Should've Been

Abbey Lincoln · Other Songs - Abbey Lincoln

There's a sound comes from livin'

Somewhere in the past

When the grass was greener

And we found true love at last

It's the sound of sorry

Lookin' yonder with regret

Sorry 'cause of what you got

And what you didn't get

Could've been another song

Would've been a sing along

Could've been, would've been

Should've been

Could've been another world

Where true thoughts of love unfurl

Could've been, would've been

Should've been

But here we are, we are here

Here's to life, give a cheer

Here am I, here are we

Here's to you, here's to me

After all is said and done

There was laughter, we had fun

It was life, it was love

Should've been

But here we are, we are here

Here's to life, give a cheer

Here am I, here are we

Here's to you, here's to me

After all is said and done

There was laughter, we had fun

It was life, it was love

Should've been

It was life, it was love

Should've been

Should've Been by Abbey Lincoln

Abbey Lincoln's 'Should've Been' stands as a poignant testament to her mastery of the soul and jazz genres. Recorded with her signature vocal clarity and emotional depth, the track exemplifies her ability to convey complex narratives through melody alone. As a prominent figure in the 1960s and beyond, Lincoln's work often blended spiritual themes with social commentary, creating a unique sonic landscape that influenced generations of singers. The song reflects her commitment to authentic expression, avoiding cliché in favor of raw, unadorned emotion. Her discography remains a critical resource for understanding the evolution of vocal jazz and the spiritual dimensions of American music during the civil rights era.